Geoff & Akasha Balkman - Oglala Lakota / Yankton & Oglala Lakota Artwork

Tribe of Testimonies

The Book of Mormon, a scripture of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, describes two peoples: Lamanites and Nephites. After a last great battle, the Nephites were destroyed from the face of the earth. The remnants of the Lamanites are among the ancestors of today’s North American Native Americans. Andrea Hales (Navajo), the host of Tribe of Testimonies, interviews faithful Native American Latter-day Saints of tribes across the U.S. and Canada to learn how the Gospel of Jesus Christ has influenced their lives. Everyone’s story is different—conversions, families, missions, educations, careers, talents, achievements, failures, trials. As we share our stories, maybe we can strengthen each other. May we all walk in beauty. // This podcast is not sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. However, we love the Church. For further information on The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, please visit ComeUntoChrist.org.

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Tribe of Testimonies

Geoff & Akasha Balkman - Oglala Lakota / Yankton & Oglala Lakota

April 23, 2024 • Andrea Hales • Episode 167

Ah...where to begin with this one. Geoff and Akasha came to my house. And they didn't use a tissue once. You might need one though. This is a tough, tough story. They lost their son out of the blue. Their son just didn't wake up one day. The baby of their family. And I'm so sorry for their loss. I asked them after we recorded how they felt this loss compared to suddenly losing someone in a car accident or some other freak accident. The loss would be as sudden, but they pointed out that this loss doesn't leave them any one to blame--which is a burden they are glad to not have. Throughout this conversation, you will hear how they are seeking many ways to heal. But their best healing comes through seeking our Father in Heaven and our Savior Jesus Christ. They know that the covenants they have made in the temple are a strength to them and their other children. They know that one day they will have answers. And they also know the pain will always be with them. Their testimonies are amazing. I am so grateful for their time and their story. https://littlewisebear.org